Thinking of heading for a holiday in Cyprus? Then what better time to go than on Cyprus Independence Day. On 1 October, the locals will be celebrating the 51st anniversary of the end of Cyprus’ war for independence, with street parties, live music and a huge military parade in the capital city of Nicosia.
Cyprus has been a holiday hotspot with Brits for years thanks to its fantastic weather, stunning scenery, delicious food, thriving nightlife and its handy location – just a short hop from the UK. Need more convincing? Cyprus has dozens of breathtaking beaches, 53 endorsed by the Blue Flag Organisation, of which South-East Cyprus’s Famagusta district alone boasts 21. Protaras, one of the district’s key holiday resorts, claims its white-gold sands, clear water sand sea coves are the finest in the country, so why not see if that claim holds water?
Cyprus offers a huge range of accommodation options to suit all styles – and budgets. Take your pick from five-star hotels, self-catering apartments and beach-front villas. Check out www.rentcyprusvillas.com, which boasts more than 200 properties to let across Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca and Famagusta. Holiday Villa 559 in Stephanie Village, Paphos, offers two bedrooms – one double, one twin – a swimming pool and sunbathing terrace, and a great location within walking distance of local shops and tavernas. Pick it up for between £400 and £800 for a week depending on the season.
Aiya Napa hardly needs an introduction, but I’ll give it one anyway – it’s the nightlife capital of Cyprus. Check out Robin’s Den, Hollywood Boulevard and the Abyss Club, or choose from hundreds more pubs, bars and clubs. Ayia Napa also offers some daytime activities such as Water World, with its bevvy of water-slides, wave pool, kamikaze rides and an interactive Trojan Adventure for children. The park’s ancient Greece-inspired design and friendly service have already netted it 24 international awards – so check it out as a perfect escape from the scorching Cyprus sun.
Famagusta’s historical sites are well worth checking out, such as the ruins of the City of Salamis – which, despite the name, has nothing to do with cured sausages – one of the country’s most valuable archaeological sites. This area – the ancient capital of Cyprus, which dates back to 1100 BC – has seen the country through its numerous occupations by the Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, and the Romans. You can also see the famous Roman baths, stand in a columned Gymnasium or visit a traditional 50-row amphitheatre complete with 15,000 seats.
As the day draws to a close, take your pick from a vast range of eateries offering everything from classic Cypriot food to international fare. In Larnaca, the Segafredo Cafe, the French Rendez-Vous, the Hobos Steak House and the Galu Seaside eateries are all worth a visit for some tasty treats.
(Image: Glen Bowman)
